The current GMC Yukon line has seen great success, and the company is looking to build on this momentum with the all new 2015 GMC Yukon Denali and Denali XL. GM focused on style, performance, and technology with the next generation Yukon lineup, and they did not stray too far off the traditional course. The new full-size SUVs are still body-on-frame vehicles, have very strong presence, and provide even more comfort and technology on the inside.

The frame and all the dimensions are shared with the 2015 Tahoe and Suburban. The Yukon rides on a 116 inch wheelbase, while the Yukon XL is stretched another 14 inches. Overall length is increased by two inches and provides more interior volume than before. At the same time, engineers were able to remove about 100 lbs from its curb weight. The new 2WD Yukon weighs 5,576 lbs, and the fully laden AWD Denali XL with 22 inch wheels comes in at 5,981 lbs. Fuel economy numbers have not yet been announced, but GMC said that improved aerodynamics, electric power steering, and the new EcoTec3 engine technology combine for better highway MPGs.

GMC Denali customer are especially discerning, and interior designers had a tall order to improve the interior in every way. On first impression, they have succeeded. They allowed for more rear seat legroom and easier entry/exit. Interior materials are top notch, with the Denali line having its own unique color and trim combinations. The dashboard has been completely reworked with large user interface screens and carefully laid out buttons and knobs.

The new Yukon will use GM’s new 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 power: direct fuel injection (SIDI), cylinder deactivation, continuously variable valve timing, and other advances are included. Power output is same as on the 2014 GMC Sierra: 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The Yukon Denali and Denali XL come with the 6.2-liter torque monster (420 hp and 450 lb-ft). Both motors are backed by 6L80 6-speed automatic transmission. GMC is staying with tradition here. Big and powerful V8s are the name of the game. You will not find an 8-speed, turbocharging, or diesels in the 2015 GMC lineup of SUVs. It may come later, but for now – GMC is staying with the tried and true.

The 2015 GMC Yukon Denali is also stuffed full of safety technology. You can add 360 degree radar crash avoidance, lane departure, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert with vibrating seat, and much more. If you are a thief targeting the new Denali, you will have a tougher time getting the vehicle. GMC throws down the gauntlet with latest window break detection, vertical and interior movement alerts, and a system that disables key control if it detects any theft intrusion.

Check out this insider TFLcar video overview of the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali

Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.

I’m a 20 year loyal Yukon/ Tahoe/ Denali owner. I’ve had 5 of them and have owned nothing else for 20 years. The styling of this new truck is just Aweful. Looks are too boxy and the lines are horrible. This new design will force me to drive my current LTZ (which I love) until it dies. After that – I will most likely look to a different car company for my next vehicle. First time in 20 years I’ve even thought about doing so.